Archived Feature:
Monument Valley
Monument Valley is a place which has inserted itself into America's psyche in subtle ways. Its bizarre shapes form the backdrop for countless "Western" films, notably several directed by John Ford, and so for many people the scenery automatically evokes the classic emotions so often associated with the American West: apprehension, violent confrontation, the vastness of the open frontier, and the concept of good surmounting evil.
The area is quite extensive, even when viewed by car, and in order to properly experience it you might consider more than one day in the area. There are a variety of levels at which to experience the place, including self-guided driving, chartered jeep tours, and even horseback.
The area is currently run as a sort of concession by the Navajo Nation.
Directions: Monument Valley straddles the border of Southern Utah - Northern Arizona. It is easily accessible from US 163 either northward from Kayenta, AZ or southward from Blanding, UT.
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